While some nursing schools in Florida have been embroiled in controversy, there is no doubt that most of the state’s nursing programs are of high quality. The Master’s degrees offered by the University of South Florida, University of Miami, and Florida International University are ranked in the top 50 of the US News & World Report list, while the DNP programs offered by Florida State, University of Florida, and University of Miami are 26th and 31st (tie) respectively.
If you’re thinking of becoming a nurse practitioner either through an MSN or DNP degree, or for specific NP programs such as FNP, AGNP, or PNP’s then here are the academic options you have in the sunny state of Florida:
Florida NP Programs Quick Facts
- Universities Offering NP Programs in Florida: 25
- CCNE Accredited NP Programs in The State: 19
- ACEN Accredited NP Programs in the State: 2
- Average Tuition Costs: $28,000–$35,000 (in-state students at public universities), $50,000–$82,000 (out-of-state students at public universities), $45,000–$60,000 (private universities)
Table of Contents
Nurse Practitioner Programs and Schools in Florida
Program Overview:
As a Seventh-day Adventist institution, AdventHealth University is part of the 45 hospital campuses run by the said organization. True to its mission of molding movers and shakers who have the drive and compassion, the university specializes in providing quality healthcare education, such as that of Nursing, Healthcare Administration, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy.
Its Department of Nursing offers part-time and full-time Associates, BSN, MSN, DNP, and Certification programs, all available through a blend of in-person and online classes.
Why Students Should Consider AdventHealth’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible design: Fully online program that may be completed in 18 months.
- Clinically integrated: Part of the AdventHealth system.
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets the high standards of the aforementioned governing body.
Additional Considerations:
- Requires Religious Courses: May not be aligned with your faith or personal goals.
- Challenges with the online program: Some issues on the online platform have been reported.
- Costly tuition: AdventHealth’s fees are quite higher compared to other programs.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- DNP
- Part-time BSN-to-DNP: FNP Track
- Full-time MSN-to-DNP: FNP Track
Program Overview:
Barry University in Miami Shores, FL is a private Catholic institution that has groomed professional nurses for almost 65 years. As shown by its religious affiliation, its School of Nursing is committed to training nurses who value diversity and individual choice through transformative educational experiences.
Why Students Should Consider Barry’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Program Offerings: Barry offers a variety of options for aspiring NPs, such as MSN, Post-Master’s Certificate, and DNP.
- ACEN Accredited: Barry meets the high standards required for NP education.
- Personalized Support: The small class sizes allow for individualized attention from faculty members.
Additional Considerations:
- Expensive Tuition: As a private university, Barry’s fees are higher than those of other institutions.
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Students will have to arrange their clinical sites/placements.
- Dated Campus: Some of the facilities are described as old.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Family Practice
- Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
- Nurse Practitioner, Post Master’s Certificate – AGACNP or FNP
- Nursing Practice, Post-Baccalaureate (DNP) – AGACNP or FNP
Program Overview:
Founded in 1887, Florida A&M University is a historically black college and university based in Tallahassee, Florida. Its School of Nursing is deemed the oldest continuing baccalaureate Nursing program in the country, having been established in 1904 as a hospital-based program. Since its inception, the school has fostered a student-centered environment that allows it to produce innovative yet caring nurses.
Why Students Should Consider Florida A&M‘s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Streamlined Curriculum: FAMU’s programs may be completed at a faster rate.
- Supportive Learning Environment: FAMU has a student-to-faculty ratio of 1:20 or less.
- Flexible Format: The program is mostly delivered online, making it conducive to working students.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited State Authorization: FAMU’s NP programs are not authorized in California, New York, and Pennsylvania.
- Higher Tuition: The costs are higher compared to other public universities.
- Requires More Support: Students report limited support from their colleagues and the faculty.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN Online
- MSN, AGPCNP (On-Campus)
- MSN, AGPCNP (Online)
- MSN, WHNP (On-Campus)
- MSN, WHNP (Online)
Program Overview:
Nestled in Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University first opened its doors in 1961. Eighteen years after its founding, it launched its nursing program under the College of Social Sciences. Currently, such programs are housed under a standalone College of Nursing named after benefactor Christine E. Lynn.
The college’s MSN degree is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary to become either an AGPCNP, FNP, or PMHNP.
Why Students Should Consider Florida Atlantic’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Immersive Experience: Practicums are held at health department clinics, private practices, community health centers, and urgent care clinics.
- Part-Time Option: Allows for more flexibility for working students.
- Multiple Campuses: FAU has branches in Boca Raton and Davie.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Logistics: Students may need to travel to Miami-Dade or Broward counties for their practicum.
- Rigid Format: Only some courses are offered online, which may not be conducive to some working students.
- Rigorous Admission Process: Admission is competitive – students must have a strong educational record and clinical experience to be considered for admission.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN
Program Overview:
Founded in 1991, the Fort Myers-based Florida Gulf Coast University is home to the Marieb College School of Nursing. It is recognized as one of the top 10 programs in the state, having a 100% employment rate and stellar first-time certification passing rates. It offers multiple options for BSN and MSN holders who wish to become FNPs or PMHNPs.
Why Students Should Consider Florida Gulf Coast’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Part-Time and Full-Time Formats: Students may choose which option is best for them.
- Federal Funding: FGCU has a $2.7 million federal grant that supports the FNP program.
- Emphasis on Hands-On Training: Practicums are held at clinical settings, such as department clinics, private practices, community health centers, and urgent care clinics.
Additional Considerations:
- Rigorous Program: A significant time commitment is required to finish the program, which may not be suitable for some working students.
- Hybrid Program: Courses are not fully online; some need to be taken on campus.
- Competitive Admission: The acceptance rate is less than 20%.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP
- Nurse Practitioner MSN to DNP
Program Overview:
Florida International University (FIU) was established in 1965. Now, it is the eighth-largest public university in the country. It houses the Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences, which is headquartered in the Maidique campus in Southwest Miami. The college is currently recognized as one of the 50 best grad schools for Nursing by US News & World Report.
FIU’s graduate nursing program offers concentrations in AGPCNP, FNP, PMHNP, and PPCNP.
Why Students Should Consider Florida International’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Format: Courses are delivered via hybrid modality, with options for part-time or full-time study.
- Scholarships Available: Qualified full-time graduate students may get their fees reduced.
- Affordable Tuition: Competitive cost, especially for in-state students.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Students need to find their own clinical preceptors.
- Limited Support: Some students have concerns regarding the limited academic advising support.
- Commuter School: Fewer on-campus communities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Graduate Nursing (MSN/DNP)
Program Overview:
The Florida National University in Hialeah is a private university that first opened its doors in 1982. Formerly known as Computech Institution, it has come a long way from offering technological programs. Currently, it offers healthcare degrees, such as an online MSN program where students can work towards becoming AGCNPs, FNPs, or PMHNPs.
Why Students Should Consider Florida National’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Focused Curriculum: The programs emphasize evidence-based practice, health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic conditions.
- Hybrid Format: Students can complete some of the programs online, and some on campus.
- CCNE-Accredited: The programs meet the standards for quality nursing education.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Support: Some students have commented about the limited support.
- Higher Tuition Fees: As a private, for-profit school, FNU’s rates are higher than other institutions.
- Commuter School: No on-campus housing available for those who seek a traditional student experience.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – AGACNP Post-Graduate Certificate
- MSN – PMHNP Post-Graduate Certificate
- MSN – FNP Post-Graduate Certificate
Program Overview:
Chartered in 1851, Florida State University sits on the state’s oldest site of continuous higher education (Tallahassee). Its College of Nursing, which was established less than a century later, takes pride in its educational, clinical, and research opportunities. It has posted a 95.41% NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2023, while several of its graduate programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Its DNP program, which offers five specialization tracks, is listed as the 26th best in the nation by the US World & News Report.
Why Students Should Consider Florida State’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Best in Florida: FSU’s DNP program is ranked first in the state.
- Focus on Health Equity: The FNP program emphasizes family-focused care in diverse, non-hospital settings.
- Competitive Tuition Rates: Fees are relatively affordable, especially for in-state students.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Responsibilities: Students are expected to secure their own preceptors and clinical sites, which may be challenging for those residing outside of Tallahassee.
- Intensive Academic Workload. The DNP program has a rigorous curriculum, which includes over 1,000 clinical hours and comprehensive coursework.
- Competitive Admissions Process: Some may face challenges during the application period.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- DNP
Program Overview:
Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL is a private university that has been ranked as one of the schools for value, undergraduate teaching, and innovation by the US News & World Report.
Its School of Nursing, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, boasts of a 90 percentile NCLEX pass rate. It also has a 100% placement rate, which is made possible by its 500+ hours of clinical and simulation classes.
Why Students Should Consider Florida Southern College’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Diverse Program Offerings: Tracks offered include Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administrative Leadership, and Nurse Educator.
- CCNE-Accredited: FSC’s programs meet rigorous academic and professional standards..
- Faculty Support: Students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs. The tuition rates may be higher than those of public universities.
- Limited Opportunities: Due to its location, FSC offers fewer clinical placement opportunities and networking prospects.
- Lower Graduation Rate: FSC has a lower graduation rate compared to its peer institutions.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – AGPCNP
- MSN – FNP
- Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing (FNP or AGPCNP)
Program Overview:
Founded in 1965 as the Herzing Institute, the now-Herzing University is headquartered in Wisconsin. It has campuses in Orlando and Tampa, Florida, however, most of its Nursing programs are offered online. Its MSN program, which is designed for RNs and non-nurses, is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Higher Learning Commission.
Why Students Should Consider Herzing’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Diverse Educational Pathways: Herzing provides multiple NP program options.
- Flexible Online Learning: The NP programs are delivered online.
- Comprehensive Clinical Placement Support: Herzing offers a clinical placement pledge.
Additional Considerations:
- Self-Directed Learning: Some students have expressed concerns about the lack of direct instruction.
- Varying Student Outcomes: Graduation rates differ across campuses.
- Financial Issues: Some students reported unexpected out-of-pocket expenses due to course scheduling or administrative errors.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to MSN-AGACNP
- MSN – AGACNP
- Post Master’s AGACNP
- RN to MSN – AGPCNP
- MSN – AGPCNP
- Post Master’s AGPCNP
- RN to MSN – FNP
- MSN – FNP
- Post Master’s FNP
- RN to MSN – PMHNP
- MSN – PMHNP
- Post Master’s PMHNP
- RN to MSN – PNP
- MSN – PNP
- Post Master’s PNP
- Accelerated RN to MSN – WHNP
- MSN – WHNP
Program Overview:
Jacksonville University is a private institution founded in 1934. It is home to the Keigwin School of Nursing, which opened in 1983 in response to the chronic shortage of nurses in the city. Driven by the acronym CARE: clinical excellence, advocacy, respect, and equity, the school offers traditional and accelerated undergraduate BSN programs. It also hosts MSN, DNP, and post-graduate certificate programs that pave the way to three NP specializations.
Why Students Should Consider Jacksonville University’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning Formats: Full-time and part-time tracks are offered.
- Dedicated Clinical Placement Team: JU assists students in securing clinical sites within the counties of Duval, St. Johns, Clay, and Nassau.
- Personalized Academic Support: On top of small class sizes, there are academic advisors who will guide the students throughout the program.
Additional Considerations:
- Higher Tuition Costs: Tuition rates are higher compared to public universities in Florida.
- Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical sites and preceptors.
- Environmental Concerns: Some students have expressed concerns about campus safety.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – AGACNP
- MSN – FNP
- MSN – PMHNP
- BSN – DNP FNP Cognate
- BSN – DNP AGACNP Cognate
- BSN – DNP PMHNP Cognate
- FNP Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC)
- AGACNP PGC
- PMHNP PGC
Program Overview:
Opened in 1997, Keiser University is a private institution with campuses in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. It opened in response to the growing need for business and healthcare professionals. The latter is reflected in its College of Nursing, which is ranked as one of the best colleges for Nursing by the US News & World Report. It offers Associates, BSN, MSN, and DNP programs, which are delivered through flexible small classes that students may take one at a time.
Why Students Should Consider Keiser’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Courses are delivered online in eight-week terms.
- “Students First” Philosophy: Support and attention are tailored according to individual student needs.
- Transfer Credits: The MSN-FNP program allows up to 12 transfer credits.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Cost: The programs are considered expensive compared to public institutions.
- Self-Directed Learning Emphasis: The programs require a high degree of self-motivation.
- Concerns About Reputation: Keiser University has faced criticism regarding its reputation.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – FNP
- MSN – WHNP
Program Overview:
For 25 years, the Miami Regional University in Miami Springs, FL has been offering Associates, Bachelors, and Masters degrees in various disciplines. Its School of Nursing, which is recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, has an impressive NCLEX passing rate of 98.5% and an MSN passing rate of 94%.
Why Students Should Consider Miami Regional’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Training: Hands-on learning is emphasized to ensure students are well-prepared for NP roles.
- Supportive Learning: MRU promotes student engagement and success through personalized mentoring.
- Financial Assistance: There are various scholarships available for aspiring NPs.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Students are responsible for arranging their own clinical sites and preceptors, and these must be approved by the university.
- Program Transparency: Some students have reported discrepancies between the program’s presentation and its actual structure.
- Limited Recognition: MRU’s NP program may not be as widely recognized as that of other schools.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – FNP
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Post-Master Program
- FNP Post-Master Certificate Program
- Psychiatric Mental Health Post-Master Certificate Program
Program Overview:
Based in Davie, Nova Southeastern University is a private university with 14 colleges. It is home to the Ron and Kathy Assaf College of Nursing, which is ranked as one of the best nursing schools in Florida by collegefactual.com. Its BSN and graduate nursing programs are recognized by the US News & World Report as well.
Why Students Should Consider Nova Southeastern’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Strong Reputation: NSU is a private university known for healthcare education excellence.
- Multiple NP Specializations: The university offers FNP, AGACNP, and PMHNP tracks.
- Clinical Affiliations: NSU has partnerships with major healthcare systems in Florida and beyond.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: NSU’s NP programs are relatively expensive.
- Program Structure: Initial semesters focus on writing and research, which may not align with some students’ expectations.
- Financial Aid Challenges: Some students have reported difficulties in obtaining financial aid and scholarships.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN – DNP
- FNP MSN – APRN
- AGACNP MSN – APRN
- PMHNP MSN – APRN
- Postgraduate Certificate APRN
Program Overview:
Situated in West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBAU) is a private Christian institution established in 1968. It has nine colleges, one of which is the School of Nursing. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, PBAU produces excellent nurses with the help of its state-of-the-art resources, internship programs, and service trips.
Why Students Should Consider Palm Beach Atlantic’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: PBAU’s DNP programs follow high educational standards.
- Professional Transition Mentorship Program: The university provides support for students as they transition into advanced practice roles.
- Career Opportunities: Many stated that they received multiple offers upon graduation.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: PBAU’s tuition is higher than that of public universities.
- Strict Academic Policies: Rigorous academic standards are in place, including dismissal for students who fail to meet the GPA requirements.
- Faith-Based Curriculum: Some might find the school’s faith-based approach unsuitable.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- DNP – AGPCNP
- DNP – FNP
- DNP – PMHNP
Program Overview:
Founded in 1900 as the Rasmussen Practical School of Business, the now-Rasmussen University has campuses throughout the state of Florida. Its nursing programs, however, are offered online and have eight start dates a year, thus providing flexibility to working nurses. Its Master of Science in Nursing Nurse Practitioner and post-graduate certification program has four specialization tracks available, namely AGPCNP, FNP, PPCNP, and PMHNP.
Why Students Should Consider Rasmussen’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Diverse Offerings: Rasmussen offers NP specializations that cater to various patient populations.
- Empowered Learning® Model: Coursework is online and self-paced.
- Accelerated Completion: Students can complete the MSN program in 27 months.
Additional Considerations:
- Financial Aid: The MSN-NP program is not eligible for federal student aid.
- State Licensure Restrictions: The MSN-PMHNP program does not meet the licensure requirements in California and New York.
- Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical placements.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN-NP
- Post-Graduate Certificate NP
Program Overview:
Formerly known as Biscayne College, the St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, FL is ranked as one of the best regional universities in the south by US News & World Report. Its College of Health Sciences & Technology, which oversees BSN and online MSN programs, is known for its experiential learning curricula, dedicated faculty, and various research opportunities.
Why Students Should Consider St. Thomas’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Online Format: The program is delivered entirely online; access to coursework is available 24/7.
- Robust Curriculum: The program includes a wide range of competency-building courses.
- Supportive Environment: STU’s student-centered approach fosters community and collaboration.
Additional Considerations:
- Self-Directed Learning Environment: The program focuses on self-study, and there is minimal direct instruction.
- Clinical Placements: Finding clinical preceptors falls largely on students.
- Unexpected Costs: Some students had to pay for additional courses not initially disclosed.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – FNP
Program Overview:
Founded in 1853, the Orlando-based University of Central Florida is a public institution with the fourth-largest student body in the country. Its College of Nursing, which has been producing excellent nurses for 40 years (and counting), has been recognized by US News & World Report as one of the best schools for BSN, DNP, and online graduate nursing programs. It’s also the first school in Florida to offer an RN to BSN degree and an online Ph.D. for nurse-scientists.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Central Florida’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Nationally Recognized: The university’s graduate nursing programs are recognized as some of the best in the US.
- Regionally-Focused Training: Clinical placements are arranged within the Central Florida area, allowing for practical training within diverse community environments.
- High Certification Exam Pass Rates: 100% of its recent NP graduates passed the national certification exams.
Additional Considerations:
- Intensive Coursework: Students have reported that the program’s lectures can be dense.
- Accelerated Pace: The courses, which are compressed into seven-week terms, can be overwhelming for some.
- Competitive Admission: Limited seats are available.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP: AGACNP
- BSN to DNP: AGPCNP
- BSN to DNP: FNP
Program Overview:
Founded in 1853 as the East Florida Seminary, the University of Florida has been operating on its Gainesville campus since 1906. As the state’s ‘preeminent university’, it is home to the esteemed College of Nursing, which is recognized as a Center of Excellence in Education by the National League of Nursing. It is ranked in the top 4% and 10% of baccalaureate and graduate degree-awarding nursing schools in the US and was the first school to offer an NP program in Florida.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Florida’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Top-Ranked: UF’s DNP program is ranked as one of the best in Florida and the nation.
- Comprehensive Training: Practicum is done in various healthcare settings, such as UF Health Shands Hospital.
- Diverse Specialization Options: Multiple NP tracks offered.
Additional Considerations:
- Intensive Commitment: The DNP program includes rigorous coursework, long clinical hours, and a scholarly project.
- On-Campus Requirements: The program requires periodic on-campus sessions, such as simulation workshops and skills assessments.
- Competitive Admission: Applicants are expected to meet high academic standards and demonstrate relevant clinical experience.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP
- MSN to DNP
Program Overview:
Based in Coral Gables, FL, the University of Miami is a private institution that offers nursing programs through its School of Nursing & Health Studies. Historically, it was the first to offer a collegiate nursing program in South Florida when it opened in 1948.
Its MSN and DNP programs are highly ranked by the US News & World Report. The school has also posted nearly-perfect rates in the NCLEX-RN and NP certification exams.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Miami’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Nationally Recognized: UM’s DNP program is ranked as one of the best in the country.
- Rigorous Academic Standards: The university’s NP programs maintain high academic standards.
- Focus on Leadership and Policy: The curriculum emphasizes leadership and health policy.
Additional Considerations:
- Financial Considerations: The cost of attending UM is quite high.
- Intensive Program: Students have reported a fast-paced curriculum, which may not be suitable for some students.
- Administrative Concerns: Some students are concerned about the school’s responsiveness to their needs.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN – DNP AGACNP Track
- BSN – DNP AGPCNP Track
- BSN – DNP FNP Track
- MSN – AGNP Acute Care Program
- MSN – AGNP Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program
- MSN – FNP Program
- Post-Master’s Certificate, AGACNP
- Post-Master’s Certificate, AGPCNP
- Post-Master’s Certificate, FNP
- Post-Master’s Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Program Overview:
Located on a 1,300-acre campus in Jacksonville, the University of North Florida is home to the Brooks College of Health Sciences. The school’s primary goal is to prepare effective nurses through clinical and experiential education, which is reflected in its notable NCLEX pass rates. Its DNP program, which has two specialization tracks, is ranked number 1 in the state by Nursing Degree’s rankings of Best Nursing Schools.
Why Students Should Consider the University of North Florida’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Quality Improvement: The program aims to promote evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Clinical Partnerships: UNF has diversified the students’ clinical experience with its partnerships with various healthcare facilities.
- Affordable Tuition: The university offers competitive tuition rates.
Additional Considerations:
- Intensive Academics: The program’s structure demands significant academic commitment.
- Additional Fees: There are additional fees that can increase the overall cost of the program.
- Credit Transfers: Some have reported difficulties in getting previously completed coursework recognized.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- DNP – FNP
- DNP – PMHNP
Program Overview:
Established in 1956, the Tampa-based University of South Florida is home to a well-respected College of Nursing. In fact, US News & World Report ranks it as one of the best schools that offer BSN, DNP, and DNP in Nurse Anesthesiology programs. After all, it remains true to its goal of producing nurses who exhibit innovation, excellence, compassion, and respect.
Why Students Should Consider the University of South Florida’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Diverse Offerings: The university offers a range of NP programs.
- Clinical Partnerships: USF maintains over 1,000 healthcare affiliations throughout Florida.
- Sophisticated Facilities: The university delivers cutting-edge resources and simulation experiences.
Additional Considerations:
- Online Structure: Some students have described the online components as disorganized.
- Additional Costs: Some students have reported unexpected fees.
- Language Barriers at Clinical Sites: Some students had to seek an alternative location due to language barriers.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN – MSN
- BSN or MSN – DNP
Program Overview:
The University of Tampa is a private institution established in 1931 as the Tampa Junior College.
Its Nursing Department, which is overseen by the College of Health & Natural Sciences, offers BSN, MSN, DNP, and post-graduate certification programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In 2019, it was named the Best Nursing program by RegisteredNursing.org, owing to its rigorous curriculum and historically high NCLEX pass rates.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Tampa’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: The university meets the organization’s strict standards.
- Extensive Clinical Partnerships: U of Tampa is affiliated with over 200 healthcare facilities in the Tampa Bay area.
- Flexible Admission: There are rolling admissions for fall, spring, and summer terms.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Fees: UT’s tuition rates are higher than those of public universities.
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Despite the wealth of affiliated facilities, some students find it hard to secure a spot.
- Limited Research Opportunities: Clinical practice is emphasized over research.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- MSN – AGPCNP or FNP
Program Overview:
Founded in 1979 as the Institute of Physical Therapy, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is a private institution owned by Altas Partners. Its School of Nursing, which only offers graduate programs, is famous for its 100% clinical placement rate and 95% first-time FNP certification passing rate for 2022. Its MSN program offers tracks for budding AGCNPs, FNPs, and PMHNPs, while its DNP is designed for nurses who want to become FNPs or Nurse Executives.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Saint Augustine’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The FNP program provides students with hands-on experience in various clinical settings.
- Flexible Learning Options: USAHS offers multiple entry points and pacing options.’
- Clinical Placement Support: The university provides dedicated clinical placement support.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Responsibilities: Students may need to travel for placements.
- Program Cost: The tuition fee can be quite high.
- Limited Reviews: There are scarce testimonials on USAHS’ FNP program.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to MSN
- BSN to MSN
- DNP
- Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate (FNP or PMHNP)
Program Overview:
The University of West Florida is a public research university that sits on a 1,600-acre campus in Pensacola. It was founded in 1963 and hosts the Ushu Kundu, MD College of Health, which houses the School of Nursing. The school offers baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. In 2022, its MSN program was recognized as one of the top online nursing programs by Princeton Review.
Why Students Should Consider the University of West Florida’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- High Certification Exam Pass Rates: The university has achieved a three-year average pass rate of 93% on the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) certification exam.
- Flexible Online Format: The program is delivered entirely online, making it ideal for working students.
- Supportive Faculty: The faculty are practicing nurse practitioners and clinical leaders who provide mentorship and guidance throughout the program.
Additional Considerations:
- Full-Time Commitment: The full-time program may not be suitable for some working students.
- Clinical Placement Responsibilities: While UWF provides guidance, students need to secure their clinical placements, which may require travel.
- State Requirements: The program may not meet the licensure requirements of some students’ residence states.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Earl and Nancy Hutto MSN – FNP Online
Nurse Practitioner Licensure Requirements in Florida
Degree level needed: at least a Master of Science in Nursing
Supervised hours total: 500 minimum
Required exams: Specific to NP specialty
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – AGPCNP, AGACNP, ENP, FNP, PNP-Primary, PMHNP
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) – AGPCNP, ENP, FNP, PMHNP
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) – AGACNP
- National Certification Corporation (NCC) – NNP, WHNP
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) – PNP-Primary, PNP-Acute
Background-check: Level 2 background screening, including fingerprinting, as initiated by the Florida’s Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse
State licensing board: Florida Board of Nursing, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable nurse practitioner program in Florida?
Florida International University’s NP program, including the PNP and AGACNP track, is one of the cheapest – particularly for in-state students. As for non-residents, Jacksonville University offers a competitive tuition rate for its MSN program.
What Florida nurse practitioner program has the highest pass rate for the national certification exam?
Several programs have maintained a 100% passing rate in the last few years, including those offered by the University of Central Florida, the University of North Florida, and the University of Miami.
What financial aid and scholarships are available to Florida residents?
The State of Nursing in Florida
Florida is expected to have a shortage of 60,000 nurses by the year 2035, according to a report. However, vacancy rates have been down to 7.8% this 2024, from 13% in 2023.
Another significant challenge is the low NCLEX passing rates. According to a report, only 84.9% of examinees passed the RN exam, which is below the national average of 91.16%. The same can be said for PNs, where the passing rate was 80.78%, in contrast to the national average of 88.38%. This could result in a staffing shortage, although experts believe that such may still be corrected.
On the upside, NPs in Florida have a projected growth rate of 59% by the year 2032, which is higher than the projected national growth rate of 46%. As such, NP school graduates are expected to have a bevy of career options after passing their certification exam.
